A Guide to Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy (CP)

Learn about symptoms, complications, and causes of dyskinetic cerebral palsy in babies and children

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy is a type of brain disorder that affects a child’s movement and muscle control. If your child has been recently diagnosed with this type of cerebral palsy (CP), you likely have a lot of questions and concerns. This page aims to be a resource for you, providing clear information about dyskinetic cerebral palsy, including its symptoms, potential complications, and known causes.

Here, we’ll break down complex medical terms into easy-to-understand language, answer common questions, and point you toward some interventions that can help your child thrive.

We understand that every child’s journey is unique, and this information is meant to be a starting point for you as you navigate this path.

What is dyskinetic cerebral palsy?

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy, also known as athetoid cerebral palsy, is a type of CP characterized by involuntary, uncontrolled, and often unpredictable movements. This form of cerebral palsy arises from damage to the basal ganglia area of the brain, which is responsible for regulating movement, posture, and muscle coordination.

Individuals with dyskinetic cerebral palsy may experience a mix of movement patterns that can include:

• Slow, writhing movements, particularly affecting the hands, feet, arms, or legs, that can be fluid or twisting.
• Sustained or repetitive muscle contractions resulting in twisting and repetitive movements or abnormal postures.
• Sudden, rapid, jerky movements that may seem to be well-coordinated but are involuntary and unpredictable.

These involuntary movements can affect any part of the body, including the face, which may impact speech and swallowing. The severity and location of the movements vary from one person to another and can change over time.

While muscle tone in individuals with dyskinetic cerebral palsy can fluctuate between too tight (hypertonia) and too loose (hypotonia), it often makes controlling movement challenging, particularly during voluntary actions.

How common is dyskinetic cerebral palsy?

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy is considered the second most common form of cerebral palsy. Globally, as many as 4 out of every 1,000 children are diagnosed with some form of cerebral palsy. Of those diagnosed, approximately 12% to 14% have dyskinetic cerebral palsy.

What are the complications of dyskinetic cerebral palsy?

Dyskinetic cerebral palsy can lead to a variety of complications, affecting multiple aspects of an individual’s health and daily functioning, including:

Managing these complications typically requires a multidisciplinary approach, including various therapies (physical, occupational, speech, and nutritional) and possibly surgical interventions. Early and ongoing intervention can help mitigate some of these complications and improve the quality of life for those with dyskinetic cerebral palsy.

Can people with dyskinetic cerebral palsy walk?

The ability of individuals with dyskinetic cerebral palsy to walk can vary significantly from person to person, depending on the severity of their condition and the specific nature of their involuntary movements.

Some individuals with milder forms of dyskinetic cerebral palsy may be able to walk independently or with minimal assistance, while others with more severe forms may require supportive devices such as walkers, braces, or wheelchairs.

Is dyskinetic cerebral palsy genetic?

No, dyskinetic cerebral palsy is not a genetic condition (where traits or disorders are passed from parents to children through genes).

Can cerebral palsy be the result of trauma during birth?

Yes, cerebral palsy can be the result of trauma during birth. While not all cases of cerebral palsy are due to birth injuries, a significant number result from complications or trauma that occur during the labor and delivery process. This kind of trauma can lead to brain damage, which in turn can cause cerebral palsy.

Types of birth trauma that can lead to cerebral palsy during birth include:

It’s important to note that while birth trauma is a known cause, many cases of cerebral palsy have other origins, such as infections or maternal health conditions during pregnancy. Moreover, not all delivery complications result in cerebral palsy; the condition’s development is influenced by several factors, including the severity and location of the brain injury.

If you suspect that your child’s cerebral palsy may have resulted from a medical mistake before, during, or after childbirth, it’s crucial to seek legal advice to discuss your options for pursuing financial compensation.

Looking for answers about your child’s cerebral palsy diagnosis? Get help from an experienced birth injury attorney.

If your child has received a diagnosis of dyskinetic cerebral palsy, understanding your legal rights and options is crucial, especially if medical negligence could have contributed to their condition.

At Brown Trial Firm, skilled birth injury attorney Laura Brown offers specialized support for families navigating the aftermath of birth injuries. With an emphasis on compassionate service and legal expertise, Laura and her team are dedicated to advocating for the rights of your child, aiming to secure the justice and compensation needed for their ongoing care and well-being.

Reach out to the Brown Trial Firm today to schedule a free consultation to learn how we can assist in safeguarding your child’s future.